Did I run a red light?

Question

This intersection I was crossing had cameras at the corners. The speed limit was 35 mph and I was going probably 35, 36, or 37. I crossed the first crosswalk already and it changed to a red light when I was around in the middle of the intersection. (I know 100% I passed the first crosswalk with my two front wheels, and my back two wheels were either past the crosswalk, or about to pass).

I live in Oregon, and I was wondering if I would get fined for running a red light. Also, if I was going 1 or 2 mph over, would I get a ticket for that? I've heard that the camera's read your speed limit while it's on a yellow light to see if you were speeding to get past.

If anyone can tell me if I would get fined or not, that would be great. Anyone's opinions are greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

yea thats considerd running a red light the camera's are set .05 seconds to take pics of people running red light's to be considerd not running a red light u gotta be in the middle of the intersection. and speed camera's dont take a pic until ur going aout 5 or 6 mph over the limit

Answer 2

No fine for the speeding and its considered running it if your car wasn't under the light when it turned.  I wouldnt really worry, you will find out in a few weeks  =P

Answer 3

That happened to me once. As I was under the light, the camera started taking pictures so I stopped under the light for a few seconds. There was no car where the camera was taking the picture. So nothing happened.

Answer 4

It really depends on how the state interprets a red light infraction. When I took driving school about 12 years ago, the instructor said it was best to interpret it as meaning nothing but your exhaust fumes should be in the intersection when the light turns red.

Some states may consider it running the red if you enter the intersection after the light turns yellow. Or if you don't slow down when approaching a "stale" green light (meaning a light that has been green for an extended time).

Based on what you describe, I would say there is a good chance you'll be getting a ticket in the mail.

Answer 5

If you saw it turn red then you probably ran it. If your eyes were unable to see red then no. Get used to slowing down when you see yellow - life is too short and you'd probably feel bad if you hurt someone because you tried to make it through a light.

Answer 6

Since you went through on an orange light, just tell the judge you couldn't stop safely.

Answer 7

If you entered the intersection on yellow, you will get a ticket for running the red.  No, you won't get a speeding ticket.

Answer 8

You should be getting a fine for the light.  Learn where the camera's are, and don't run the lights.

Answer 9

idk about oregon

but in california if your already in the middle of a intersection and it turns red your fine

as far as i know about the cameras checking to see if your speeding up to make the light, idk

but i dont think theres a law that says "if you try to make a light on yellow its illegal"

Answer 10

As long as you're IN the intersection (across the waiting line) by the time it turns red, you're legal.  

Also, did you see a flash?  If not, then they didn't take a picture of you (unless it was really bright and a flash wasn't necesary)

Answer 11

your vehicle must clear the intersection before the light is red....according to the book that is but i wouldnt worry to much.